Proposed Spearfish Canyon State Park Master Planning Contract Awarded

First public input session to be held January 26

PIERRE, S.D. - Today, the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) announced that Peaks to Plains Design, PC will be the consultant in the master planning efforts for the proposed Spearfish Canyon State Park and Bismarck Lake areas in the Black Hills.

"We are excited to partner with Peaks to Plains for this project," stated Katie Ceroll, director for the Division of Parks and Recreation. "They have the proven experience to lead the public input process that will lead us into the next phase of this project for the State of South Dakota. Combined with the inventory and analysis of both areas, the information we gather from the public will help shape the future of the Spearfish Canyon and Bismarck Lake areas for all generations to enjoy."

With the consultant under contract, GFP will continue to proceed with public engagement and outreach opportunities as part of the project. A series of presentations have been conducted to city councils, county commissions and other organizations throughout the Black Hills. In addition, GFP will accept applications from local residents and organizational representatives interested in serving on a Volunteer Advisory Committee to work alongside the consultant and GFP staff. Focus group meetings will also be held.

The first public input session will be Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017, at 5:30 p.m. MDT in Spearfish at the Spearfish Park Pavilion, located at 115 S. Canyon Street. During this meeting, the consultant and GFP staff will present information on the project, discuss the inventory and analysis information and gather input from the public on their thoughts and priorities for Spearfish Canyon. Those who cannot attend can view meeting information online at the newly launched spearfishcanyon.sd.gov and offer input through the online comment form. Times and dates for additional public input sessions are yet to be determined.

Last January, Gov. Daugaard announced a plan to provide for the establishment of a new state park in Spearfish Canyon. Recognizing the area’s significance to South Dakota’s heritage, the Governor initiated the proposal to preserve Spearfish Canyon and enhance the visitor experience with improved roads and camping, hiking, fishing and sightseeing opportunities.

"Spearfish Canyon contains some of the most renowned natural, scenic and cultural resources in the country," said Ceroll. "We want to ensure that the Governor’s vision for the creation of Spearfish Canyon State Park is met with public input, transparency and openness."

About Peaks to Plains: This Montana-based firm specializes in community-involved design for public sector projects and site-specific engineering with services that include feasibility studies, land planning, design, engineering and construction administration for public entities and private clients throughout Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming. Visit http://www.peakstoplains.com/ to learn more.

-GFP-

GFP Mission: The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks provides sustainable outdoor recreational opportunities through responsible management of our state’s parks, fisheries and wildlife by fostering partnerships, cultivating stewardship and safely connecting people with the outdoors.